Starmer ally endorses Andy Burnham to be next prime minister

Outgoing UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's chief secretary Darren Jones rules himself out of the race for Labour leadership and has thrown support for the newly-elected MP for Makerfield Andy Burnham, the only candidate to put his name forward.

Jones, who was mooted as a possible contender, says he has been reassured about frontrunner Burnham's economic plans and that he believes the former Greater Manchester mayor would be the next prime minister.

He suggests Burnham has not outlined specific spending plans in their talks, adding there's "room to borrow a little bit more."

Jones' endorsement means Burnham could likely succeed Starmer in the middle of July, rather than September after a leadership contest. If appointed, the 56-year-old lawmaker will be Britain's seventh leader in 10 years.

Burnham's chances got a big boost on Monday when former Health Secretary Wes Streeting announced his support. Burnham was reportedly meeting Labour Party colleagues Tuesday in preparation for a leadership contest.